Charity worker Coldoon detained after denouncing Somaliland’s alleged plan to accept Gaza refugees; rights groups slam renewed crackdown on free speech
Abdimaalik Muse Coldoon, a charitable worker and activist, has been arrested in Berbera after criticizing Somaliland’s stance on Gaza refugees. His detention sparks outcry over freedom of speech violations.
Somaliland Arrests Vocal Charity Worker Abdimaalik Coldoon After Criticism of Gaza Refugee Report
In a move reigniting tensions over freedom of speech in Somaliland, charitable worker and outspoken social media activist Abdimaalik Muse Coldoon was arrested Thursday in the port city of Berbera. While no formal charges have been announced, sources close to the case suggest the arrest was triggered by Coldoon’s vocal criticism of a recent Al Jazeera Arabic report claiming that Somaliland would be willing to receive refugees from war-torn Gaza.
Coldoon, a prominent public figure known for both his humanitarian work and fiery commentary, had earlier fled his hometown of Burao, fearing arrest. Though persuaded by family and community elders to return with reassurances that he would not be targeted, he was detained shortly after traveling from Burao to Berbera.
His recent remarks, which are believed to have provoked the authorities, included a rejection of any implication that the Somaliland government represents Somalis in broader geopolitical issues. “I am from Somalia, and the minister does not represent us… The Palestinians are our brothers,” he said, rejecting any plans to accept Gaza refugees under what he called a “mercenary government.”
While officials have remained tight-lipped about the reason for his detention, human rights advocates and political figures have decried the arrest as an assault on civil liberties. Justice Minister Yoonis Ahmed Yoonis—previously a key figure in the Waddani opposition party—condemned the act as unlawful. “Coldoon is being held simply for exercising his constitutional right to speak. This is a blatant violation of freedom of expression,” he said.
This isn’t the first time Coldoon has clashed with Somaliland authorities. His arrest record dates back to 2017, when he publicly supported former Somali president Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo. He was previously jailed on charges of defamation and false information targeting educational institutions, though he was later acquitted.
Coldoon’s ongoing persecution marks yet another disturbing chapter in Somaliland’s tightening grip on dissent. Despite being a self-declared democracy, the government’s continued targeting of critics casts serious doubt on its commitment to basic human rights. Until his release, Abdimaalik Coldoon’s case will remain a litmus test for Somaliland’s fragile tolerance for free speech.
